Research: Making Sense of Sewage Outflow

Chris Courage
PhD Student, Arts University Bournemouth

Supervisor: Asha Ward

Abstract

"Fragile: Do NOT Touch (2024)" is a project that transforms sewage outflow data into a tangible form using data materialisation. This resin-cast faux ceramic basin highlights the neglect in water management systems, aiming to raise public awareness.

Key Concepts

Data Materialisation: Converting quantitative data into 3D objects using traditional crafts and modern technology.

Purpose: To critique UK sewage management practices by creating physical representations of data.

Projects

Fragile Basin
Fragile: Do NOT Touch (2024) - A resin-cast basin symbolizing the neglect in current water management.
System:Sewer Installation
System:Sewer (2022) - An installation using a vertical plotter to visualize sewer outflow data on a canvas.
Data Map
Data Map (2023) - 3D cones representing sewage outflow frequency and duration, printed in biodegradable PLA.

Process

  1. Data Collection: Gathering sewage outflow data from reports.
  2. 3D Modelling: Transforming data into 3D models using software.
  3. Fabrication: 3D printing and resin casting to create the final artifact.

Webapps

  1. Data spills: Ugly sewage data visualised

Conclusion

This interdisciplinary approach merges digital and manual processes to create engaging and educational art that makes abstract data tangible.